Social media commentator Daniel Regha has taken issue with the recent comments made by Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, regarding internet fraudsters popularly referred to as Yahoo boys.
Obi, in a post on his verified X account, stated that some of these young people involved in cyber fraud are actually “gifted individuals who need guidance and redirection rather than condemnation.”
He made the remark while addressing youths at the “Money Beyond Wealth” event held at All Saints’ Cathedral in Onitsha.
The former governor of Anambra State explained that the message of the event centered on addressing the increasing desire for material wealth among young Nigerians. He emphasized that genuine wealth is rooted in “integrity, character, and purpose,” not just financial gain.
According to him, some youths engaging in cybercrime possess creativity and boldness that could be productively harnessed.
He said, “I told the youths that some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation. The challenge is to steer their energy away from deception and toward meaningful, productive ventures.”
However, Daniel Regha strongly opposed Obi’s viewpoint, arguing that it appeared to defend criminal activity.
In his words, “Peter Obi is justifying crime now? Let’s be clear Yahoo boys are no different from bandits because both ruin lives. With this kind of statement, the government could also justify rehabilitating bandits. Absolutely not. Cybercrime must be condemned.”
Regha’s response has sparked widespread debate across social media platforms. While some users applauded Obi for recognizing potential in misguided youths, others maintained that criminality should never be excused under any circumstance.
See screenshot of post below:
